People with nice homes on a budget swear these cheap tricks make your home look more expensive

One quick way to keep your home looking clutter-free is to pay attention to your outlets. Tommy Huerter, interior designer and social media personality at A-List Interiors, says you should “make sure you are keeping all of your electrical cords organized and out of sight. Messy cords are such an easy way to mess up a space.” He recommends this outlet concealer, which is easy to install. To use it in your home, unplug your cables and plug in the outlet concealer. Then, you can adhere the white cable along the baseboard and plug your items into the 3-foot extension cable. Stash the extension behind some furniture, and you’re done.

Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer and founder at Arsight, recommends changing your light fixtures to make your home look more expensive. “Changing [them] to some[thing] more dramatic or installing dimmable LED strips under the shelves and cabinets may create a luxurious atmosphere without spending too much,” he says. This under-cabinet LED light strip installs quickly with a durable adhesive, and the strip is over 3 feet long to cover a lot of cabinets. After installing the strip, just pop in three AA batteries, and they’re ready to use. Controlling them is easy, too — there’s a large button on the battery compartment to turn it on or off.

Lighting can change a lot, according to the owner and designer of Live Original Design, Chrissy Arsenault. “Update those fixtures! Layers of lighting make a room instantly feel more luxurious and, of course, functional,” says Arsenault. She recommends accent lighting, such as wall sconces, and this LED wall-mounted reading light would be the perfect addition. It has a strong adhesive-backed base with a magnetic ball mount, which makes it easy to rotate to get the perfect angle. You can even pull it off the wall as an occasional flashlight or little table light. It’s also touch-activated — choose from three color temperatures and three brightness levels with long presses and taps.

• Available colors: 5

Deborah Lamberton, General Manager at ASAP Restoration LLC, says a budget-friendly way to upgrade outdoor lighting is to opt for solar. “For less than $50, you can purchase solar lights to illuminate the statement trees in your yard or highlight a path to the front door,” says Lamberton. “Lighting can make a home look and feel like it is being taken care of and looked after.” These solar garden lights check the boxes for a budget and stylish illumination. Stick these warm white lights in your yard or planters, and the flexible, wired lights will sway gently in the wind and dance around greenery.

Saft says swapping outdated lighting is another excellent upgrade because he says, “Lighting is the jewelry of the home and can add much-needed drama and height to a room. An oversized fixture truly showcases high ceiling height and draws eyes all around the room.” Place this flush-mount ceiling light in a spot where it stands out, like over a dining table. Its circular design is eye-catching without being too much, and its matte black and gold finish looks elegant. It also requires no bulb — it has a dimmable, built-in LED light.

• Available sizes: 4
• Available colors: 4

“There are so many ways you can elevate your home on a budget! Step one is to keep things organized,” Huerter says. “I love the different storage solutions from Yamazaki Home. They go for a minimal look that’s easy to integrate into any style.” This countertop organizer is a stylish solution that’s also quite practical. Inside, there’s an adjustable divider to maximize organization. Its 5-inch tall interior fits a variety of items, such as toiletries and makeup. The natural wood top conceals the clutter and adds an expensive-looking touch.

“You’d be amazed at how much simple organization can elevate your space,” says Huerter. “Places to focus on in this regard are your bathroom, kitchen, and office space — as these are the areas that get most cluttered.” Huerter recommends this ultra-sleek kitchen rack with a handy dual-level design. You can store plates or canisters underneath it and other items on top. It's made of durable wood and strong steel, so you can confidently stack your dishes on top. If you get two, you can stack one on top of the other for layered storage.

Huerter says window treatments “can seriously elevate your home.” He specifically loves this Amazon brand of faux linen curtains. “They are a great price and pleat beautifully,” He adds. “I personally get an oversized length and then shorten them with hemming tape to give a tailored and custom look.” They’re available in a ton of sizes and linen-like colors, so you can find the perfect fit for your room or tailor them as Huerter suggests. They’re also 85% blackout, so they’ll easily darken a bright room when you need it. Aside from the gorgeous pleats, they also have an elegant weighted hem.

• Available sizes: 8
• Available colors: 31

“A simple retouch of drawer pulls, doorknobs, or light switch covers with stylish contemporary alternatives gives a room a new look in an instant,” says Kropovinsky. This matte black doorknob has a sleek, modern design that looks expensive, and it has an impressive 4.7-star average rating after nearly 7,000 ratings. Its sleek shape fits standard doors and installs in minutes with a screwdriver. As a bonus, it has built-in antimicrobial technology to help keep germs at bay.

• Available colors: 4
• Available styles: 6

Cassandra Seale, BDG editor, recommends these chic oil and vinegar dispenser bottles. Swapping store-bought oil bottles for these minimalist glass bottles will make your kitchen look more professional, and they’re also quite practical. A set of two comes with 36 premade labels (and two blank ones). They have weighted pourer spouts that open when you pour and close automatically to keep dust out. Each bottle is also quite spacious — they hold up to 11.8 ounces of oil, vinegar, or syrup each.

Seale also recommends this clever little dispenser for keeping cleaning supplies under the sink. It features a removable lid, so you can easily load a standard dishwashing pods inside. Once loaded, the dispenser opens at the side to reveal dishwashing pods. You can easily mount it inside of a cabinet door with the brushed steel hanging bracket, so it stays neatly concealed.

“Get rid of all that unnecessary visual clutter by stashing toys, magazines, or random collections of items that pile up around the home in uniform baskets or boxes,” says Arsenault. This hand-knit over-the-door hanging basket is made to look like jute, a material Arsenault mentions as a stylish option for keeping clutter hidden in plain sight. Its three-tier cotton construction is soft and durable, and you can mount it to your wall with one of two included hook types — an over-the-door hook or a square adhesive hook that applies to the wall.

• Available styles: 9 (including three- and two-tier options)

Arsenault also mentions accent lighting, like “a picture light over a frame,” as a quick and effective upgrade. This wireless picture light is an excellent solution that looks expensive but is quite budget-friendly. It installs with a couple of screws, and you can control ambient lighting with the included remote control. Its light is also customizable — choose from warm, cool, or natural white temperatures, adjust the brightness to your liking, and set an auto-off timer.

• Available sizes: 5
• Available styles: 14

While storage can be quite stylish, Arsenault also advises using some storage that’s more about function than form. “Keep in mind, plastic totes and storage racks, while super functional, are best kept out of sight in closets or storage rooms,” she says. Opt for these stackable clear bins, which make the perfect storage solution for pantries, your fridge, or storage cabinets. This shatterproof pack comes with two sizes, so you can find the right fit for a variety of shelf-stable staples and canned goods.

“Consider replacing your kitchen or bathroom cabinet handles and pulls with an updated style,” Arsenault advises. “A black or gold finish will go with most colors or wood tones.” These matte cabinet pulls are black (so they’ll match any kitchen or bathroom), but they’re also comfortable, thanks to their stylish rectangular design with rounded edges. A pack of 30 will help you refresh multiple kitchen or bathroom cabinets for a budget-friendly price. Plus, the matte appearance of is way better than a fingerprint-covered stainless steel finish.

• Available colors: 7

“Wall art hung too high tends to look awkward in a space,” says Arsenault. “A rule of thumb is to hang wall art and framed pictures at eye level.” Since eye level varies, Arsenault adds the center of a frame should be between “60 to 66 inches above the floor.” These picture-hanging strips require zero hammers and nails to help you achieve eye-level hanging. Instead, they use adhesive and reusable hook-and-loop closures to quickly get your favorite pieces on your wall. Pop them on all four corners of your piece, remove the final backing strips, and simply press your frame onto the wall.

Carolyn Menyes, BDG editor, recommends swapping your pillowcases with these best-selling satin pillowcases, which come in a two-pack for a cheap price. “I genuinely like my Bedsure pillowcases. They’re so smooth and soft and cool,” Menyes says. Available in many color choices, you can easily match your bedroom’s aesthetic, no matter your style. The satin material is also made of machine-washable polyester, which might be gentler on your skin and hair than alternative fabrics. With a 4.5-star average rating after over 306,000 ratings, other shoppers have also vetted these.

• Available sizes: 5
• Available colors: 36

“I feel so bougie when I use my stainless steel cookware,” Menyes says. And feeling bougie while you cook doesn’t require a ton of cash — this stainless steel skillet option is super budget-friendly. Using a stainless steel cooking surface not only looks professional, but this one has a base that’s designed to heat quickly and evenly. Its design also won’t discolor, and it’s safe to put in a dishwasher after dinner.

“Unexpected objects and creative shapes to store fruit or other kitchen items add interest to a space often visualized as utilitarian,” says Lauren Williams, founder and principal at Lauren Jayne Design. She suggests adding something extra-chic and recommends this three-legged ceramic fruit bowl. It makes a casual yet eye-catching centerpiece that doubles as storage for fruit. Its creamy white matte color with black speckles nicely blends with other neutrals, while its sculptural shape is sure to spark conversations among visitors.

Williams is also a fan of adding stone materials since they’re “transitional through different design aesthetics and offer a subtle balance between a contemporary feel and rustic charm.” One such item is this two-pack of sculptural travertine candle holders, which she says you should consider using to style your dining room “to create a unique composition.” These holders fit both standard pillar and tapered candles, and because they’re made of natural stone, each one is entirely unique. Not only do they bring a rustic vibe to your space, but their artsy flair makes them appear more expensive than their price tag. At about a pound each, they’ll also help weigh down your tablecloth.

“A simple way to add pops of vibrant colors to an interior palette is through accents like glass bowls, art books, and uniquely shaped vessels,” says Williams, who recommends these colorful (and unbreakable) bowls. A set of six includes vibrant yellow, pink, orange, green, sky blue, and dark blue colors, each with an elegant gridded texture. They’re made of BPA-free, durable acrylic, so they won’t break if you drop them. Plus, these dishwasher-safe bowls have also earned a 4.6-star average rating after over 1,400 ratings.

“I finally pulled the trigger on these pillow covers we use a lot, and they're SO nice in person,” says Lauren Beach, BDG editor. Their chic reversible colors add a pop of color, while their velvet material adds timeless texture. Meanwhile, piped edges seal the deal with subtle elegance. Slip them over standard-size throw pillows and zip them closed. If orange isn’t for you, they’re also available in eight other color combinations.

• Available sizes: 7
• Available colors: 9

“I got this charging lamp to eliminate a hot mess charging area in our living room,” says Beach. Its game-changing design offers a practical yet stylish focal point. The lamp’s base has three beads that support devices while they charge using the built-in AC outlet or USB-A or USB-C port. The lamp is also touch-operated and dimmable to as low as 30% brightness.

• Available colors: 5

“Gardens and landscaping are easy pickings when it comes to home upgrades that look high-end without breaking the bank,” says Lamberton. “Mulch is one of the easiest ways to make a garden bed (even a neglected one) stand out from the pack. Simply add enough to cover and drown out the weeds, and it will do visual wonders.” This clever mulch made of cocoa bean shells is the one to grab because it’s designed to suppress any potential weeds and keep moisture in the soil to help out your plants. It can even help to conserve water in your outdoor space. This fade-resistant mulch also has a subtle chocolate scent (thanks to the cocoa) that’s way more pleasant than classic mulch.

Kathy Kuo, the CEO, founder, and interior designer of Kathy Kuo Home, says one way to elevate your home is to change your decorative pillows for the season. “Go with faux fur and chunky knit pillows for winter and crisp linen ones, or ones with nautical or floral patterns for summer,” says Kuo. “A simple sofa decor swap makes your whole living room feel refreshed for the new season in the chicest way." These scalloped throw pillow covers will add a touch of spring or summer vibes to your couch for a budget-conscious price. They’re 100% cotton and are available in standard throw pillow sizes. They can even add elegance to an outdoor seating area, and they’re machine washable.

• Available sizes: 3
• Available colors: 10

Like pillows, Kuo says blankets can refresh your sofa in a similar way. This lightweight waffle-weave blanket is 50% cotton and 50% rayon, which is a cooling and moisture-wicking combo that doesn’t get too cozy in warmer months. The waffle weave also looks more sophisticated than a simpler knit, and it comes in calming colors that work with every season.

• Available sizes: 5
• Available colors: 17

Barbara E. Tanaka, strategic interior design advisor at Real Estate Bees, recommends this ultra-sleek magnetic knife strip so you don’t have to have a cluttered-looking knife block. Plus, she says, “It also adds a sleek, modern touch to your kitchen decor.” To apply the holder, simply add the adhesive strip to the backplate, stick it in your kitchen, and leave it alone for 24 hours. Afterward, attach the magnetic back plate, and you’re ready to add knives along the 16-inch strip.

• Available sizes: 2

Tanaka also suggests these Command decorative wall hooks if you “dislike the sight of the over-the-door hook peeping out from the top of your door.” These sleek, brushed-nickel hooks stick right on with damage-free strips and can hold items up to three pounds. Tanaka adds that these are “perfect for keys, hats, or bags,” in order to get the clutter off tables, floors, and other spaces. Plus, if you ever want to remove them, they’re designed to come off without leaving residue on your walls.

Space is worth a lot, so Tanaka suggests these floating shelves to add even more storage. “Maximize vertical space with wall shelves to display decor, art, or magazines and free up floor space,” she says. With 20 inches of length and nearly 5 inches of width, this minimalist shelf is spacious enough to create a focal point in your office, living room, or bedroom. Plus, it has a 30-pound weight limit, so it can hold heavy items like wine bottles, vases, books, and more.

• Available sizes: 4
• Available colors: 4

Nichole Abbott, FLOOR360 interior designer, says, “You might not notice how dirty the grout is, but your guests do.” If that sounds like your dilemma, she recommends this super heavy-duty grout cleaner, which will “make your tile floors look new and expensive.” Its powerful formula is designed to destroy built-up dirt and grime in minutes. To use it, open the flip-top cap and apply the cleaner to some dirty grout. Use the included brush with V-shaped bristles to scrub away the grime, mop your floor, and reveal cleaner, brighter grout.

“Step up your bookshelf décor game by weeding out some books and adding a set of matching ceramic vases with a textured vintage feel. It’s a more polished look that gives the impression you’re a thoughtful collector,” says Abbott. She recommends this set of white ceramic vases, which feature a distressed and crackled glaze that not only looks expensive but adds a touch of intrigue to an otherwise bland shelf. You can keep the three vases together to draw the eye to their staggered look or space them out throughout your shelves.

• Available colors: 6

Another quick and easy refresh Abbott recommends is to get fitted slipcovers for a worn-out couch. “Sofas are usually placed centrally, so you are forced to see any blemish or tear, so cover it up [with slipcovers] and fluff the pillows to make your space look like new.” This stretchy sofa slipcover is a perfect option to hide your couch’s signs of wear and tear. It’s made of a soft polyester with an elastane bottom, so it’s comfortable but secure. Whenever it needs a little freshening up, you can stick it in your washing machine.

• Available sizes: 7
• Available colors: 35

The CEO of TurboTenant, Seamus Nally, swears by wall art as an instant upgrade to your space. “While large art pieces can absolutely be incredibly expensive, you can also create DIY pieces that are budget-friendly (but no one can tell!).” He recommends using wallpaper, like this chic peel-and-stick option, for a budget-friendly art piece. It adds a subtle pop of color with a stylized countryside print full of trees and birds. To apply this timeless paper to your wall or inside a picture frame, simply trim the amount you need and smooth it on.

• Available sizes: 3
• Available colors: 4

Anna Anderson, BDG editor, points to upgraded storage as a quick way to make your place look a lot better. “I think putting any store packaging into nicer containers: soap, olive oil, cereal, etc. [makes a difference]," says Anderson. These airtight food storage containers fit the bill nicely because they come in a minimalistic design that fits any style. Each container holds up to 22 cups and is made of durable, food-grade plastic that makes it easy to see your ingredients. The set also comes with labels you can customize with the included marker.

“Install bedroom storage solutions or closet organization systems to declutter and make the most of your space,” advises Jeff Palla, president of Mr. Handyman, a Neighborly company. So, grab a closet solution like these space-saving hangers, which have five hooks, so you can load up to 10 items of clothing onto one. Because each of these hangers is ultra-compact, they won’t take up a lot of space. They’re also surprisingly durable enough to hold heavy items like winter coats.

Sarah Dunn, professional organizer of Ready Set Organize, says that getting rid of “all the mismatched coffee cups you've picked up along the way in life” makes your kitchen look nicer. “The cohesiveness gives off a luxurious vibe and elevates the look.” She recommends this set of four large latte mugs that are made of durable and aesthetically-matching ceramic. Not only are they dishwasher- and microwave-safe, but they’re large enough to hold up to 16 ounces of coffee or tea. Their white-speckled glaze looks expensive, while the terracotta-toned bottom adds a handmade look.

• Available colors: 4

Dunn also advocates for matching ceramic dishes over a collection of random or mismatched plates, and she especially loves this set of easy-to-stack ceramic flat plates. As a budget-friendly pick, you not only get style but durability with an expensive-looking (and scratch-resistant) finish. Plus, the modern design with raised edges helps to prevent any spills.

• Available colors: 4

Aaron Brilliant, owner of Emerald Roofing and Siding, says you should “consider investing in budget-friendly smart plugs to control lighting and devices,” to upgrade your home. These smart plugs come in a two-pack and are compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa devices. But even if you don’t have a voice assistant, you can use these without a hub via the Kasa app. The app lets you control lighting or other devices plugged into the smart plug over Wi-Fi — no matter where you are.

​​"Creating a cozy ambiance on a budget is achievable with simple tricks,” says Brilliant. “Employ multipurpose furniture like storage ottomans for functionality and style.” One such piece is this storage ottoman, which can hold linens, blankets, books, or electronics. The base is foldable, so you can store it in a closet when not in use. And it’s sturdy, too — the tufted top lid features a comfy, high-density foam that won’t deform with time.

• Available colors: 6

Amy Biggart, BDG editor, recalls an easy, cheap upgrade that made a lot of difference: “When I got this utensil holder for my apartment, I remember thinking how much nicer my tiny kitchen looked.” Its brushed stainless steel design looks professional and prevents fingerprints. This clever holder also makes cooking more efficient since you can rotate the base to find what you need. Inside, you can store utensils with or without the removable divider. Plus, its weighted base has a nonslip foam lining that won’t damage your countertop.

“Take up space with flowers and let them serve as art and decor in your home,” says Jove Meyer, owner and creative director of jovemeyer.com. “Have fun with your floral decor with one statement arrangement or multiple small bud vases,” he adds. You’ll get a lot of bang for your buck out of these on-trend artificial flowers, which will never die. Made of UV-resistant faux silk petals and realistic plastic stems, this convincing arrangement includes a mix of fake flowers like peonies and hydrangeas tied together like a real bouquet. Of course, there are other florals and stem options to choose from to fit your space.

• Available colors: 11

“Art really can make your home look and feel expensive,” says Meyer. He also recommends “playing with size and scale” because it “makes all the difference.” To achieve a layered look, Meyer suggests making a gallery wall, and these gallery frames with shatter-resistant glass are an easy place to start. This sleek and professional-looking set comes with three sizes, so can experiment with the right layout to make the perfect focal point.

• Available colors: 7

“I love this pack of ceramic planters since it makes things feel more put-together. (Also, they’re really good planters),” says Karen Belz, BDG editor. The trio comes in multiple colors of the stylish honeycomb texture, so you can find the right look for your home. Each pot features a large drainage hole and matching ceramic tray, and their sizes are perfect for your favorite plant babies.

Chelsea Werner, co-founder of the Werner Blumberg team and Global Real Estate Advisor at ONE Sotheby’s International Realty, recommends swapping your outlet covers. “Replace your old, yellowed switch plates and outlet covers with stylish, chic alternatives,” she says. “Details matter.” So grab these ultra-modern light switch covers, which are super durable and feature a sleek, minimalistic design. The matte black finish will look clean in any room, and they install quickly with a screwdriver and the included matching screws.

• Available sizes: 27
• Available colors: 3

Werner also suggests removable wallpaper for accent walls, closets, or alcoves. “A little pop always makes for a fun, visual surprise. When done properly, it can truly be the hero in the room,” she says. Applying something like this art deco-style peel-and-stick wallpaper will add the visual interest Werner mentions, and since it has a black-and-white design, it’ll match many styles. Since it’s removable, this stunning wallpaper is also perfect for an apartment or rental because it won’t leave paper or residue behind.

• Available colors: 2

Kamil Kozorys, interior designer and co-founder at Unique Tiles, says sticking to a neutral color palette gives an expensive-looking boost to your home’s interior. “This includes shades of white, beige, gray, and black. These colors have a calming effect and create a cohesive and polished look in any room,” Kozorys says. This trio of flameless candles features tranquil gray glass holders filled with a realistic faux wick and natural wax. The gray color will tie together your decor, while the warm white glow will add a romantic ambiance, whether at full brightness or dimmed with the included remote control. Plus, there are plenty of other neutral glass color options.

• Available colors: 10

“Creative wall decals can make a big impact on the overall look of your home. They are affordable, easy to apply, and come in various designs and patterns,” says Kozorys. Look for a complementary or contrasting pattern, such as “a floral decal to a plain white wall or a geometric decal in a neutral-colored room,” Kozorys adds. These wall decals are just that, with geometric options like lines, semi-circles, and arcs. When applied, they almost look like someone painted them on with a brush, thanks to their varied sizes. To use them, clean your wall, then press arrange the individual pieces to achieve the desired look.

• Available styles: 5

“Not everyone can afford to redo their homes with the latest stone accents in kitchens & baths,” says Jason Saft, CEO of Staged to Sell Home. “But by incorporating furniture and accessories with stone or made of stone, you can bring that luxe feel throughout the house without breaking the bank.” This travertine tray fits Saft’s recommendation for an everyday piece. Pop this minimalist matte-finish piece somewhere highly visible, such as in your bathroom as a sink caddy or on your coffee table to hold a candle. Its natural stone has unique pits, and its curvy shape resembles an abstract art piece.

Saft’s recommendation for stone furniture also upgrades your home without the costly installation of granite in your kitchen or bathroom. He says to look for consoles or side tables that you can use “in a high traffic and highly visible area to maximize its chic appeal.” This cheap accent table has a white faux marble top that looks like natural stone but costs less. The table has a chic gold frame and is also collapsible, so it’s especially great for small spaces. Use it beside your couch or a cozy chair — it’s just large enough to hold a beverage.

• Available colors: 2

Finally, Saft advocates painting a room from floor to ceiling with a high gloss finish for a budget-friendly transformation. “A can of paint can completely alter the aesthetic and vibe of any space. And while it is labor intensive, it can easily be changed if you don’t love it.” This clever painter’s tape applicator will take some of the stress out of prepping your room before painting. It includes one Scotch Blue Painter’s Tape roll to start you off. Use the applicator to apply paint along baseboards, windows, and doors, then use the built-in blade on the end to cut the tape from the roll.